Alliance Alert: Today, June 2nd, advocates from across New York will participate in a call-in campaign urging state lawmakers to pass S8426-A/A8839, critically important legislation that would strengthen mental health and substance use parity protections in New York State.
This legislation would incorporate into New York law key provisions from the final 2024 federal parity compliance regulations that were recently paused by the current federal administration. At a time when federal protections face growing uncertainty, it is essential that New York act to ensure insurance companies cannot continue placing unfair barriers between people and the mental health and substance use services they need.
Far too many New Yorkers still face denials, delays, inadequate provider networks, burdensome prior authorization requirements, and discriminatory insurance practices when trying to access services. Strong parity protections are essential to ensuring mental health and substance use support is treated the same as physical healthcare.
The Alliance for Rights and Recovery is proud to stand alongside our friends and partners at the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) and Inseparable in pushing for passage of this legislation before the end of session.
We encourage advocates, providers, families, peers, and community members to participate in tomorrow’s call-in campaign and urge lawmakers to protect access to lifesaving mental health and substance use services for all New Yorkers.
With only a few days left of Legislative Session, we are concerned that this legislation will not pass both houses. Please call tomorrow and urge Speaker Heastie and Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins to make sure that this legislation that strengthens behavioral health parity is passed in the Senate and Assembly. Thank you!
